Fibromyalgia

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Fibromyalgia means widespread pain in the muscles, but this syndrome causes many other symptoms. Lab tests seldom validate fibromyalgia condition and the results often make such individuals feel like a hypochondriac. Pressing on tender points can diagnose fibromyalgia, but the exam still does not explain all of related symptoms.

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People with fibromyalgia often describe their symptoms as a flu-like infection that doesn’t go away. It leaves them exhausted and unable to think or find the right words (symptoms of fibro fog). With fibromyalgia, individuals have trouble sleeping and wake up stiff and achy. The symptoms can be debilitating and such individuals probably feel as though they have to push themselves to get anything done. According to MRI studies on fibromyalgia one brain region that showed an altered response was the ventral tegmental area (VTA), a group of neurons in the center of the brain that responds to reward or punishment. The VTA helps regulate the release of dopamine, a pain-relieving brain chemical.

Common Fibromyalgia Symptoms

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• Pain all over

• Fatigue

• Sleep difficulties

• Brain fog

• Morning stiffness

• Muscle knots, cramping, weakness

• Digestive disorders

• Headaches/migraines

• Balance problems

VCAT Treatment Plan (VCAT-TP)

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VCAT-TP includes stimulation and balance of neural networks in the areas of Fore brain, Mid brain, and Hind brain. Proper functioning and regulation in these areas improves the plasticity and enhances the overall brain's processing system by increasing oxygenated blood flow through out the brain leading to improvement of related symptoms to Fibromyalgia.